Beautiful seas and an island rich with subtropical nature

Ishigaki Island is the main island of the Yaeyama Islands in the East China Sea, located about 410 km to the southwest of Naha on the main island of Okinawa (a one-hour flight from Naha Airport). With its attractive clear water, the sea here is one of the most popular in Japan, and you can even see manta rays and sea turtles. This resort city plays a central role in the economy and tourism industry of the Yaeyama Islands, and is both the southernmost and westernmost base city in Japan. Also known as an island of starry skies, Ishigaki was recognized as a “Starry Sky Reserve” by the International Dark Sky Association in March 2021 due to having low light pollution. Ishigaki Island is home to Ishigaki Yaima Village, the southernmost theme park in Japan, which recreates the nostalgic atmosphere of old Yaeyama houses in a rich natural landscape. Located on a hill overlooking the scenic beauty of Ishigaki Island’s Nagura Bay, the village has old houses registered as National Tangible Cultural Properties as well as Nagura Amparu, a wetland registered under the Ramsar Convention, where you can witness firsthand the culture and lifestyle of Yaeyama.